Bears Bites: Jared Allen Gives Bears Incredible Versatility

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In this midweek edition of Bears Bites, we check out what defensive end Jared Allen is going to do for the Chicago Bears, whether or not the switch from field turf to natural grass will affect the pass rusher, and the surprising team that has been talking to Johnny Manziel.

We start off with some Jared Allen news. With the Bears looking to show more variety in their defensive fronts this season, having a guy like Allen to anchor down the right defensive end slot will allow Mel Tucker to deploy weapons like Lamarr Houston and Willie Young in more spots than ever. [CBS Chicago]

The Bears have arguably been successful in giving themselves a defense that could lift the team into playoff contention, but they could strike an even bigger blow in the NFL Draft if they add more talent to infuse the veteran-laden phase with youthful energy. [CSN Chicago]

Whether he’s on turf or on natural grass, Allen is still capable of getting to the quarterback. [ESPN Chicago]

With the draft still on the horizon, the Bears’ offseason is already going according to plan. [Daily Herald]

Quarterback Johnny Manziel, whose draft stock has fluctuated wildly between being the number one overall pick in mock drafts to being a guy that some analysts wouldn’t pick in the first three rounds of the May draft. With that in mind, the quarterback went and visited the New England Patriots this week. [Shutdown Corner]

The Bears have just about every component of their offense returning next season (with the exception of Earl Bennett and Michael Bush), but they are still looking for some depth additions in that area to bolster the squad. [Chicago Sun-Times]